Source : Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing

candygrammar
     
        A programming-language grammar that is mostly {syntactic
        sugar}; the term is also a play on "candygram".  {COBOL},
        {Apple Computer}'s {Hypertalk} language, and a lot of the
        so-called "{4GL}" database languages share this property.  The
        usual intent of such designs is that they be as English-like
        as possible, on the theory that they will then be easier for
        unskilled people to program.  This intention comes to grief on
        the reality that syntax isn't what makes programming hard;
        it's the mental effort and organisation required to specify an
        algorithm precisely that costs.  Thus the invariable result is
        that "candygrammar" languages are just as difficult to program
        in as terser ones, and far more painful for the experienced
        hacker.
     
        [The overtones from the old Chevy Chase skit on Saturday Night
        Live should not be overlooked.  This was a "Jaws" parody.
        Someone lurking outside an apartment door tries all kinds of
        bogus ways to get the occupant to open up, while ominous music
        plays in the background.  The last attempt is a half-hearted
        "Candygram!"  When the door is opened, a shark bursts in and
        chomps the poor occupant.  There is a moral here for those
        attracted to candygrammars.  Note that, in many circles,
        pretty much the same ones who remember Monty Python sketches,
        all it takes is the word "Candygram!", suitably timed, to get
        people rolling on the floor. - {GLS}]
     
        [{Jargon File}]
     
        (2001-06-22)